Segmented ERV Transition Module for Smaller Unit Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high shipping and installation costs associated with energy recovery ventilator units are due to their large packaging and the labor-intensive assembly process, which often requires cranes or helicopters for lifting and manual formation of sealing rings.
Innovation Solution
A separate transition module for energy recovery ventilator units, featuring a frame with self-sealing surfaces and through-hole openings, allowing for reduced panel size and eliminating the need for on-site assembly and manual sealing, facilitating easier installation and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If energy recovery ventilator units are manufactured with integrated transition panels, then the sealing and alignment are improved, but the shipping and installation costs increase due to larger panel size requiring cranes or helicopters for lifting
Solution Approach 1:
The transition module is divided into separate components: a transition frame and separate transition panels. This segmentation allows the panels to be smaller and lighter for easier shipping and installation, while the frame provides the structural support needed for proper alignment and sealing when assembled on-site.
2Strength
If energy recovery ventilator units use integrated transition panels, then the structural integrity is improved, but the installation complexity increases due to labor-intensive assembly and manual sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The transition panels are pre-formed with attachment features that align with corresponding features on the transition frame. This preliminary preparation of connection interfaces eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly procedures and manual sealing, as the components are designed to connect directly and securely during installation.
3Manufacturing precision
If energy recovery ventilator units are shipped as complete assemblies, then the installation quality is improved, but the shipping costs increase due to larger packaging requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the transition module into a frame and separate panels, each component can be packaged in a compact, space-efficient manner. The panels can be flattened or nested within the frame structure during shipping, significantly reducing the overall packaging volume and shipping costs while maintaining the ability to assemble a high-quality complete unit at the installation site.
Data Source
AI summary
A transition module for an energy recovery ventilator unit. The module comprises a frame having two opposing major surfaces with two separate through-hole openings therein. The module also comprises a self-sealing surface on one of the major surfaces and surrounding the two through-hole openings. One of the through-hole openings is configured to separately overlap with return air openings or supply air openings located in a first target side of one an energy recovery ventilator unit or an air handling unit and in a second target side of the other one of the energy recovery ventilator unit or the air handling unit. The other of the through-hole openings is configured to separately overlap with the other of the return air openings or the supply air openings located in the first and second sides.